How to Maintain Your Solar Panels for Maximum Efficiency

Installing solar panels is a smart move, they help cut energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and boost the value of your home. But to get the most out of your solar system, it’s important to keep your panels in top-notch condition.

Just like any investment, a bit of regular maintenance goes a long way. Here’s how you can keep your solar panels running efficiently all year round.

Keep Them Clean (But Do It Safely)

Dirt, dust, bird droppings, and leaves can build up on your panels and block sunlight, reducing their efficiency. In most Aussie climates, rain will take care of basic cleaning, but if you’re in a dry or dusty area, a quick clean every 6–12 months is a good idea.

How to clean solar panels:

• Use a soft brush or squeegee with a long handle.
• Hose them down with clean water (avoid high pressure).
• Do it early in the morning or late in the arvo to avoid streaks or cracks from heat.

Tip: If you’re not confident getting up on the roof, call a professional. Safety comes first.

Monitor Performance Regularly

If your system has a monitoring app or display, keep an eye on your daily output. A sudden drop in performance might be a sign of shading, damage, or system issues.

What to look for:

• Consistent power generation over time.
• Drops in output that don’t match the weather.
• Alerts from your inverter or monitoring system.

Not sure what the numbers mean? At Nixon, we’re happy to walk you through it.

Check for Shading Issues

Solar panels need full sunlight to perform at their best. Over time, nearby trees may grow and start casting shade over your panels, especially during peak sunlight hours.

Regularly inspect your property for:

• Overgrown branches.
• New buildings or extensions nearby.
• Antennas or other roof equipment getting in the way.

Trimming trees or repositioning equipment can help restore full exposure.

Inspect for Physical Damage

Extreme weather, like hail, storms, or high winds, can sometimes cause panel damage. After big weather events, it’s worth giving your system a quick check (from the ground) to make sure everything looks intact.

Signs of damage:

• Cracked glass or panel frames.
• Loose wiring or mounting brackets.
• Fault codes from your inverter.

If anything looks off, give us a call. Our team can inspect and repair damage safely and efficiently.

Get a Professional Solar System Check-Up

Even if everything seems to be working fine, it’s smart to get a professional inspection every couple of years. A licenced technician can:

• Test voltage and current output.
• Inspect wiring and connections.
• Clean hard-to-reach spots.
• Spot small issues before they become big problems.

At Nixon, we offer full solar maintenance services to keep your system running smoothly.

Why Solar Maintenance Matters

• Maximises energy output – More sunlight, more savings.
• Extends system lifespan – Get the most from your investment.
• Keeps your warranty valid – Some warranties require proof of regular maintenance.
• Avoids unexpected issues – Stay ahead of costly repairs.

Need a Hand with Your Solar Setup?

Whether you’re looking for a quick panel clean, a system health check, or expert advice on getting the most from your solar investment, Nixon is here to help.

We service residential and commercial solar systems across your area, and we’re committed to providing honest, reliable, and high-quality solar solutions.